The annual Civic Reception For Bassetlaw People saw 31 individuals or groups whose efforts have improved the lives of people in the district given certificates for their achievements.

Winners were announced by Coun David Hare, chairman of Bassetlaw Council, to a capacity crowd.

"The council is hosting this event in recognition of people's contributions to our community," he said.

"There are people here tonight whose occupations have helped in the success of the district; people's voluntary work, which does so much to enhance the lives of others; those who are achievers in the field of sport and those whose individual acts of courage or bravery are a
credit to us all."

Each nominee was put forward by someone who wanted to show appreciation for their hard work, dedication or sacrifice.

The age of certificate recipients ranged from six to almost 90 years old.

Oliver Barker was only five when he won a gold medal in a song and dance solo at the Scunthorpe Music Festival back in March.

The Orchard School pupil also won a silver medal performing a ballet solo and a trophy singing Leaning On A Lamppost in the under nines group number.

He will now go on to take part in the All England Semi Final in Rotherham in May next year.

Oliver, also a pupil at Dawn Staples School of Dance, picked up his certificate with pride.

"I am very pleased to have been given this certificate," said Oliver of St John's Street.

"I really like dancing and singing and I am going to put my certificate on my bedroom wall."

Oliver's proud mum Lisa watched on as her son collected his award from
Coun Hare.

"Oliver has had an interest of music and singing from a very early age and I can remember him trying to move to some music even when he was still in his high chair," said Mrs Barker.

Other award winners include Paralympic star Troye Collins who was congratulated for his achievements in this summer's Beijing Olympics.
Although the Team GB member didn't return to his home of Rampton with a medal, he said that his third Olympic games was an experience he will never forget.

"We were treated so well by the Chinese people and they gave us tremendous support when we were competing," said the 37-year-old.
"Although I didn't get a medal the atmosphere was amazing and we will certainly have a hard act to follow when we host London 2012. Over the next few months I will be making the decision whether or not I will be taking part in my home games."

"I feel very honoured to be recognised by Bassetlaw Council for my achievements," added Troye.

The night was filled with emotion and tears as groups and individuals went up to collect their certificates - each with their own stories of courage and hard work to tell.

One of the many highlights of the evening was when Eric and Dorothy Hitchman from Oldcotes were commended for their community work.
Eric, who will be 90 in January, has been heavily involved in fundraising to build the village hall and later became secretary of the Village Hall Committee.

He spent 10 years writing a book about Oldcotes spanning from 1800 to 2000 and presented a copy to the council chairman.

"Oldcotes is a place very close to both me and my wife's heart," said Eric who has been married to Dorothy for 63 years.

"I wanted to give the council a copy of my book so they could learn more about the history of the village."

Dorothy, who will be 90 in November, was the first chef at the Charnwood Hotel and helped to instigate the installation of lighting on footpaths in the village.